How Joshua Zirkzee fared for Netherlands in his first international appearance since 2024

Joshua Zirkzee came off the bench for the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League.

Netherlands international boss Xavi turned to Joshua Zirkzee in his moment of need, during the country’s match with Greece.

Greece had raced into a 2-0 lead at half-time. Netherlands made three changes at half-time, before Virgil van Dijk pulled a goal back.

Joshua Zirkzee was brought on in the 70th minute to replace striker Mexx Meerdink, who had netted twice in the 2-1 win over Serbia.

Tijani Reijnders scored an equaliser in the 89th minute to secure a 2-2 draw and keep up Xavi’s unbeaten record as coach (one win, two draws).

Zirkzee had 13 touches during his 20-minute spell, attempting one shot at goal (on target), and also created one chance with a neat backheel inside the box – although arguably he should have taken the shot on by himself.

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This was Zirkzee’s first international appearance for the Netherlands since October 2024. His lack of regular game time saw him fall out of favour under previous boss Ronald Koeman. He was called up after an injury to Brian Brobbey.

Zirkzee’s return to the international set up has been welcomed in the Netherlands, and this is a good experience for him, given his lack of football at United.

Voetbal Primeur noted that the ‘substitutes made a difference’, while Xavi stated: “That second half was a great response to the first half. I am very happy with that. That is the way we want to play. The mentality was better and we played with more passion.”

The Netherlands have one more game remaining this break against Serbia, and Zirkzee could be in the mix to start.